Planning To Renovate Your House? Here's Some Important Advice
If you're like most people, you probably think of home renovation as a daunting task. It's not just about painting the walls or changing the flooring - it's about making changes to the very structure of your house. And unless you know what you're doing, that can be a recipe for disaster.
That's why it's important to plan your renovation carefully, and take your time in executing it. If you try to do too much at once or make changes that are beyond your skill level, you could end up causing more damage than good.
So before you pick up that hammer or start sanding down those walls, take some time to read through these tips and advice from experienced renovators. They'll help you avoid some of the most common mistakes, and make sure your renovation goes smoothly.
Windows are natural sources of lite
Unless you're an experienced contractor yourself, it's always a good idea to get at least some professional help when planning a major renovation. An architect or a designer can help you create a plan that takes into account the specific needs of your house, and makes the most efficient use of space. Windows are one of the most important elements in any room, and you need to make sure they're placed in a way that maximizes natural light. The double glazing installers from Glasgow explain how adding double or triple glazing onto windows can enhance their appeal and increase energy efficiency. In addition, it can significantly increase the value of your home.
Check your systems
You should also think about things like ventilation, insulation, and heating and cooling when planning your renovation. These are all systems that need to be in place before you start making any changes to the structure of your house. If you're not sure how they work, or how to make sure they're up to code, it's best to consult with a professional.
Ventilation is especially important in kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture can build up and cause problems if it's not properly ventilated.
Heating and cooling can be a major expense, so you'll want to make sure your house is properly insulated before making any changes.
Insulation, even though it is not a system, is extremely important as it allows you to regulate the temperature of your home without having to rely on external sources such as air conditioners or heaters.
Increase your home efficiency
There's no doubt that space is a valuable commodity - especially in big cities, where real estate prices are constantly on the rise. But just because you don't have a lot of space doesn't mean you can't live comfortably or stylishly. There are plenty of ways to make the most of your limited space.
For example, having a portable kitchen island you can move around as needed is a great way to make the most of a small kitchen. Or, if you're short on storage space, try using floating shelves instead of traditional cabinets.
There are also lots of simple things you can do to increase the efficiency of your home, like installing energy-efficient light bulbs or low-flow showerheads. These relatively small changes can make a big difference in your overall energy usage - and your utility bills.
Set a budget
Perhaps the most important part of planning a renovation is setting a budget. This will determine how much you can realistically do, and help you avoid overspending.
Start by looking at your overall financial picture, and set aside money for unexpected costs. Then, create a detailed estimate of all the materials and labor you'll need. Once you have a good idea of the total cost, you can start looking for ways to save money.
For example, if you're planning to get an entire room, you might be able to salvage some of the materials and sell them online or at a local salvage yard.
You can also look for ways to cut costs on labor by doing some of the work yourself, or hiring a contractor who is willing to work with you at a fixed price. Whatever you do, make sure you stick to your budget.
Get permits and inspections
Another important aspect of planning a renovation is making sure you have all the necessary permits and inspections. Depending on the scope of your project, you may need approval from your local planning department or building inspector. And if you're making any changes to the electrical or plumbing systems, you'll need to get the appropriate licenses from your city or county. Failing to do this could result in hefty fines, or even cause your renovation to be undone.
Create a schedule
Once you have your plan and your budget in place, it's time to start creating a schedule. This will help you stay on track and avoid costly delays.
Start by listing all the tasks that need to be completed, and then break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. Then, create a timeline for each task, taking into account the availability of materials and labor.
If possible, try to build in some flexibility to your schedule. That way, if something comes up, you can easily adjust without causing major disruptions.
Prepare for disruptions
No matter how well you plan, there's always a chance that something will go wrong during your renovation.
This is why it's important to prepare for disruptions, such as power outages, weather damage, or even problems with your contractor.
If possible, try to have a backup plan for each potential disruption. For example, if you're worried about a power outage, you could invest in a generator. And if you're concerned about bad weather, you might want to have a contingency fund to cover any repairs that need to be made.
By being prepared for the worst, you can minimize the impact of disruptions and keep your renovation on track.
Follow these tips, and you'll be well on your way to planning a successful renovation. Just remember to stay flexible, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.